Inverness-born Hollywood star Karen Gillan takes on international superheroes to raise money for Highland mental health charity

Hollywood actress Karen Gillan has shown charity begins at home by raising $60,000 for a Highland suicide prevention and mental health awareness charity.

The Inverness-born Jumanji star raised the money for Mikeysline after going head-to-head with fellow movie stars in a fantasy football league to win funds for their chosen charities.

The AGBO Superhero League comprises celebrities who star in the biggest of superhero franchises such as Ant-Man and Iron Man and include actors Tom Holland, Ryan Reynolds and Chris Hemsworth.

It is the second year Ms Gillan – a keen ambassador of Mikeysline – has competed in the league in which participants pick their own virtual American football teams and gain points based on their team’s success.

"I was grateful to get the chance to raise money for a charity I support whole-heartedly," she said.

"The work Mikeysline does is invaluable to our community in the Highlands and I want to make sure that everyone knows that there is always someone to talk to at Mikeysline.

"No matter who, you will always be listened to and supported at Mikeysline."

Donna Smith, chairwoman of Mikeysline said: "We are delighted that Karen continued her support for us through the AGBO Superhero League again this year.

"The League is a fantastic way of raising awareness of the charities chosen, putting us on a global stage.

"The amount that Karen has won for us this year will make a significant impact to the services we are able to provide at a time when charities continue to be faced by fundraising challenges due to the ongoing pandemic for which we are very thankful."

Since its founding in 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential support for those with mental health issues or in emotional distress.

Although the charity’s Hive drop-in centre in Inverness is currently closed due to government guidelines, this service will re-open as soon as possible.

In the meantime, Mikeysline offers a call back service for those who would like to talk in more detail over the phone during this period.

Mikeysline also offers Live Chat, Twitter or Messenger support as well as a text line service at 07786207755.

The text-based services remain unaffected during this lockdown and are open every evening.

Related story: Karen Gillan scores big for Mikeysline

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